48-year-old Jacksonville man charged after man critically shot in the chest early Sunday

A 48-year-old Jacksonville felon has been charged with aggravated battery after witnesses told police an argument over drugs led to the victim being shot in the chest with a rifle.

Victor Harris “Lawnmower Man” Howell of the 6300 block of Catoma Street was apprehended at a relative’s home after the shooting. Witnesses told police the victim and a friend went to Howell’s house about 1:30 a.m. Sunday and an argument started over narcotics. Police were told Howell went to a shed at the back of his property and retrieved a rifle and shot the victim, who has not been identified by police.

The victim was driven to the 5400 block of Timuquana Road, where police were called and found him in the front seat of a vehicle. He was taken to UF Health Jacksonville in critical condition.

Howell was located about 3:30 p.m. at a nearby residence. He told police he was at home and threatened by the victim, who pulled a handgun. The victim was shot in the struggle, police were told.

Howell has also been charged with possession of a weapon or ammunition by a felon.